The best time to go to Santa Cruz, Cantabria, Spain, for pleasant weather and fewer crowds, is during the shoulder seasons of May, early June, or September.During these months, the weather is generally mild and sunny, great for exploring the city and its surroundings without the intense heat of mid-summer. You'll find the popular beaches along the Bay of Biscay, like Playa de la Concha, are less crowded, making for a more relaxing experience. The city's parks and gardens, such as the Jardines de Pereda, are in full bloom, offering beautiful settings for a stroll.For those looking to enjoy the full range of summer activities, including swimming and sunbathing, July and August offer the warmest temperatures and liveliest atmosphere. However, these are also the busiest months, with more tourists and higher prices for accommodation. If you're willing to navigate larger crowds for guaranteed sunshine and a bustling city, then mid-summer is ideal.